Forget what you think you know about libraries. Dusty leather tomes watched over by even dustier leathery librarians? That’s Old World thinking.
Meanwhile, back in the 21st century public libraries have been quietly getting on with the business of trying to make your life easier, better informed, and generally more fulfilled. Isn’t it about time you stopped fighting them? Better yet, why not work the library system to your best advantage?
Here are some insider tips on how to make the most of your library.
- Cheat on your home library while on holiday – It’s not as grubby as it sounds. Some libraries in New Zealand allow “reciprocal borrowing” meaning if you have a valid library membership at your local library you’ll have borrowing privileges if you happen to be staying in another part of the country. You’ll need to show your home library card and fill in a form. A perfect arrangement for refreshing your beach reading material during that 3 week stay on the Coromandel, without the hassle of having to lug any extra books home with you. Especially useful if your summer holiday hangout has a beach library.
- Free wifi – Libraries all around New Zealand, even in places as far flung as Stewart Island, offer free wifi. Often you don’t even have to be a library member to use it which is great news when you’re on holiday somewhere with flaky cellphone reception. If the library has a dedicated wifi area, then use that (because nobody wants to be the weirdo random guy hanging around in the kids’ library, ya dig?).
- Queue jump a long waiting list – Have a popular title you’re dying to read but the reserves list at your library is longer than a Middle Earth movie marathon? Check the catalogue to see if there are any Large Print copies available. Reserves lists usually treat LP (and the audiobook version) as a different format meaning these copies don’t get reserved, or borrowed, as much. Large Print readers are often elderly and aren’t as interested in ‘The Fault In Our Stars’ or ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’. This tactic won’t work for every book you’re interested in but it’s a good trick to try with really popular, “zeitgeisty” titles.
- Finish that crossword – If Google isn’t finding the answer you need, give your local library a ring (or send a query via email). Librarians are used to answering all sorts of and it’s not a rule that you have to ask in person. Crossword clues, homework questions, assignments or just idle wonderings are all catered for.
- Get your favourite glossy mag without leaving the couch – Libraries in the four main centres (and several others) provide online access to Zinio Magazines (think titles like Rolling Stone, Elle, Hello!, Billboard, Esquire, SFX, Vogue Australia and more). Read the latest issue on your tablet or phone as soon as it’s published because you didn’t have to wait for it to be shipped from overseas.
Library card burning a hole in your wallet now?
